With Downie out, veteran Chuck Kobasew will take his spot in the lineup.

The Avalanche recalled forward Brad Malone from Lake Erie of the American Hockey League. Malone played some with the Avs last season, notching two assists in nine games. He had 14 points (six goals) in 37 games this season with the Monsters.

Downie, who signed a two-year contract last summer, underwent surgery on his shoulder after last season.

The Avs had three other forwards — Gabriel Landeskog, Jamie McGinn and P.A Parenteau — sit out Wednesday’s practice, but Colorado coach Joe Sacco described it as routine maintenance days and that all three would play against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday.

Sacco also said Matt Hunwick will make his season debut on defense against the Blue Jackets, with Shane O’Brien again a healthy scratch. Sacco said he hadn’t yet decided whom Hunwick would replace in the defensive rotation, but chances are likely it could be Tyson Barrie.

Rockies all-star shortstop crushed his 100th career homer against the Orioles Friday night at Coors Field. The blast was a mammoth shot that had some history behind it as Story is now the fasted shortstop on MLB history to 100 home runs.